Jon to Waltz to the Premiership... With Town

Last updated : 10 September 2008 By Bluesweb.co.uk
It is the first time Jon has spoke since the rumours linking him with a move to Premiership new boys Stoke City.

He denied widespread reports that Stoke City had many any bid for the former Chester man.

Although he can no longer leave the club, until January anyway, it will still be welcome news that the fans player of the year looks likely to stay.

He told the official club website: "I have heard all about the media stuff but I've not been interested in it, to be honest.

"The facts are I have not asked for a transfer. I'm very happy at Ipswich Town and my family are now back in Suffolk after the birth of our daughter.

"My wife was heavily pregnant and trying to look after a three-year-old at that time is not easy. With me being away with the team, she wanted the security of her family around, so we decided she would have the baby back home in the North.

"It's been well documented about the problems surrounding the birth of our first child so, although all the scans showed everything was fine, there is still that nagging worry at the back of your mind.

"I'll admit that during training sometimes, my mind would wander. I'm a family man and family comes first with me. The manager had a word with me and was good enough to give me two weeks off to be with my wife.

"It's was brilliant man-management and I made a point of thanking the gaffer when I came back. My family are all settled back in Suffolk now."

When asked about the Stoke interest he responded with: "It's flattering but I've been around long enough to know not to believe everyone you read in the newspapers!

"Derek Bowden has said many times that the club has received no bid for me. I've certainly not asked for a move. I do want to play in the Premier League and hopefully I will do so with Ipswich Town."